Can horseradish be eaten after its expiration date?

Horseradish past its expiration date is not safe for consumption. Eating expired horseradish may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, infections, and other health issues. If symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, or fever occur after accidental ingestion, medical attention should be sought promptly.

The safety risks of expired horseradish increase significantly, as it can easily harbor pathogenic bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli during storage. These bacteria produce toxins that may lead to acute gastroenteritis and damage digestive system health. Additionally, the flavor compounds in expired horseradish break down, resulting in poor taste, and oxidation may cause off-odors, discoloration, and other signs of spoilage, further increasing health hazards.

After expiration, horseradish loses most of its nutritional value and can no longer provide effective nutrition to the body. Instead, deteriorated components may generate harmful substances. Even if there are no obvious changes in appearance, microbial contamination cannot be ruled out; consuming it blindly imposes unnecessary strain on the body.

Always carefully check the expiration date before using horseradish. Store it sealed in a cool, dry place or under refrigeration, avoiding dampness and high temperatures. If the horseradish is past its expiry date or shows any unusual odor, slime, or discoloration, discard it immediately—do not risk eating it—to ensure food safety from the source.